ADU rules in Polk County, FL — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
In unincorporated Polk County an accessory apartment, garage apartment, or guest house is allowed as an accessory use to a single-family home. Only one is permitted per lot, a guest house must sit in the rear yard, and it needs a Level 1 Review.
Polk County's Land Development Code (LDC) Section 206.A lets you add one accessory apartment, garage apartment, or guest house to a single-family detached home in any residential district. No more than one is allowed per lot, and a guest house must be located in the rear yard of the principal dwelling. Garage apartments and guest houses must meet the accessory-structure setbacks in Table 2.2, and mobile homes may not be used as guest houses. Accessory dwelling uses require a Level 1 Review through Land Development. Accessory dwellings are prohibited in developments approved for short-term rental. In 2025 the County was considering capping detached ADUs at 50% of the primary residence, so confirm current standards before you build.
Building a second dwelling, guest house, or garage apartment without the required Level 1 Review and building permits is an LDC violation enforced through Chapter 9, and can bring a code-compliance case, stop-work order, and daily fines until corrected.
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